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To the Courteous Reader.
THough this be the third time I have presented my Service and weak endeavours to thy use, yet is this the first time I have appeared in this language, or in this nature, as touch∣ing Comets: I must confess that I never wished from my heart, that my opinion in Judicious ways should prove false and fail, until this time: But now I do heartily wish that I may be mistaken therein: Here is nothing but mischief and tribulation threatned, and truly had I not seen such great mischiefs and afflictions hanging over our heads for our sins, I had at this time been silent: But since by these signs we are forewarned of approaching evils, I hold it not meet to be silent at such a time; although I know it unlikely for any one in this way of writing to please all people: Yet I desire, and hope that my honest en∣deavours may not prove Offensive to any. We find that the old Stu∣dents in this way are very backward in publishing their Judgments on that wonderful Star, as we suppose, either because they feared to err therein; or that it would incur the displeasure of some one that might return them an unwelcome reward; therefore if I do err at my first step on the Stage in this Judicious way, I hope I may be the more ex∣cusable, or if I speak darker, or shorter than I might, I desire also to be excused, in regard that the pleasing of others to my own prejudice would avail me nothing. I had adventured to publish this small Trea∣tise of mine some months sooner, had not my time been taken up in other concerns; the further we are from the time that the Star appeared, the nigher we are to the miseries threatened by it. Therefore I think it not unseasonable to move the minds of sinners to consider it; and all that I shall now say to the purpose is no more mine than the Rules of the An∣cients, and the words of my Authors. I have done nothing here with an intent to displease any one: But if any will be offended without a cause let them not blame me but their own ill nature, that will be an∣gry with me for endeavouring to please them. I am sure there is none more diligent or willinger to please you, than
Your painful Servant, THO. JONES.